my own memento mori

I like the idea of knowing where I'm going, so I commissioned my own urn cover from Pondhopper. It's based on Victorian mourning dress, with all of the brimming bustle and prim lace. It's made with raw unlined black silk, lined with white lace, with a bustle-like top and vintage black buttons. I love the way it's both billowing over yet buttoned down - it very much suits me. Words cannot describe how much I adore this piece!

I plan to keep my most precious personal possessions in it for now, and when my time comes my ashes can kept sheltered in this most stylish cover. If my ashes are scattered at some point, I hope this wrap can be used to store meaningful mementos.

Everyone should have their own memento mori (Alexander McQueen skull scarves don't count.) We mention in passing that we'd like our ashes scattered, but truly never give it much thought. Contemplating and planning for our own death ultimately makes life more meaningful. Take a moment, and if you are so inclined, order your own urn cover from Pondhopper today. She will make you something beautiful and personal.

Heritage Clothing

One of my favorite upcycling concepts is taking inherited clothing and making something new. When my grandmother passed away I kept a grocery bag full of her clothing - I couldn't bear to part with something that held so many memories. But I couldn't exactly wear the clothing as it was. I wish I had thought to take her clothing and have something special made from them.

I am currently looking for vendors who would be available to take inherited clothing and create something new. In the meantime, here are some lovely upcycled creations from pondhopper studio. I love the dresses and coats:

But I especially love the legwarmers and spats!

New Life for a Loved One's Sweater

What can be done with clothing from another generation? We can wear it if we're into vintage. We can donate it, or we can store it in the back of the closet. Not the most creative options. This blog has been devoted to finding new lives for heritage items. And clothing has so many opportunities for reuse.

Making teddies out of inherited mink coats is a popular form of upcycling, yet we shouldn't forget about the more simple clothing items like sweaters. Pogo Shop creates cute little creatures out of old sweaters. Whether it's a knit from your grandpa or your own sweater that you'd like to pass on to your children in a way that they can keep forever, Pogo's bears are a wonderful way to keep heritage clothing close to the heart.